The History & Traditions of Europe

Lisbon, Portugal's enchanting capital, stands out for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Must-try experiences include savoring local dishes like bacalhau à brás and pastéis de nata at Mercado da Ribeira. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the city is alive with festivals and events.

Vigo is Galicia's vibrant Atlantic port city, set along a dramatic ría with Celtic ruins, a storied naval past, and what may be Spain's finest seafood culture — from freshly shucked Arcade oysters at the Mercado da Pedra to smoky pulpo á feira in the old quarter. Visit between May and October, when long golden evenings illuminate the bay and the Cíes Islands beckon for a day trip to some of Europe's most pristine beaches.

Ferrol is Galicia's Enlightenment-planned naval city, where geometric eighteenth-century streets and the Spanish Navy's historic arsenal overlook one of the Atlantic's most perfectly protected natural harbors. Visit May through October via Ambassador Cruise Line or Scenic for the Barrio de la Magdalena's architectural precision, percebes and pulpo á feira from Galicia's extraordinary kitchen, and the Atlantic Spain that few travelers discover.

Aviles is Asturias' oldest documented town, where a medieval arcaded old quarter coexists with Oscar Niemeyer's striking modern cultural centre on the reinvented waterfront of this former industrial port. Must-dos include the Centro Niemeyer, tasting fabada asturiana and traditionally poured sidra, and walking the golden beach at Salinas. Visit June through September for the mildest weather on Spain's green northern coast.

Bilbao is the Basque Country's cultural capital, where Frank Gehry's iconic Guggenheim Museum anchors a city transformed from industrial port to world-class destination. Visitors should not miss the pintxo bars of the Casco Viejo and the extraordinary Michelin-starred dining scene, alongside the museum's titanium splendor. The ideal months to visit are May through October, when mild Atlantic weather bathes the city in soft light perfect for exploring its riverside promenades and nearby Rioja wine country.

Pasajes (Pasaia) is a hidden Basque port town eight kilometers east of San Sebastian, with four neighborhoods lining a dramatic narrow natural harbor and some of the finest seafood restaurants on the Spanish coast. Must-dos include dining on grilled turbot and salt-cured anchovies in Pasajes San Juan, visiting Victor Hugo's former residence, and walking the coastal cliff path to La Plata lighthouse. Visit May through October for warm weather and summer maritime festivals.

Bordeaux, France's premier port city, is renowned for its historical significance, stunning architecture, and world-class wine. Must-do experiences include savoring local delicacies at Marché des Quais and exploring the breathtaking art installations at Place de la Bourse. The best season to visit is during the late spring and early autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are in full bloom.

Bordeaux, France's premier port city, is renowned for its historical significance, stunning architecture, and world-class wine. Must-do experiences include savoring local delicacies at Marché des Quais and exploring the breathtaking art installations at Place de la Bourse. The best season to visit is during the late spring and early autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are in full bloom.

Concarneau is a Breton fishing port whose medieval Ville Close — a walled island fortress in the harbour — houses restaurants and artisan shops within 14th-century ramparts, while France's third-largest fishing fleet operates alongside. Must-dos include exploring the Ville Close, feasting on plateau de fruits de mer, and day-tripping to the pristine Glénan Islands. May through October for the best weather, with August's Festival des Filets Bleus celebrating the town's maritime heritage.

Hugh Town, United Kingdom is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Scenic Ocean Cruises. Must-do experiences include walking the historic center to experience the layered architectural heritage, and seeking out the regional culinary traditions at a locally favored establishment away from the port area. The optimal time to visit is May through September, when mild temperatures and long days favor unhurried exploration.

Dublin is Europe's most literary capital, home to four Nobel laureates in literature, the extraordinary Book of Kells, and Georgian architecture rivaling any on the continent. Visit May through September via Holland America Line or Windstar for Trinity College's Long Room, the definitive Guinness pint at St. James's Gate, and the spontaneous pub conversations that make this city one of the world's most immediately welcoming.